The 14 Peaks Traverse

The summits of the three thousand foot mountains of Wales can be visited in a single magnificent journey. It's around 24 miles from Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) to Foel Fras and it's certainly not a mountain journey to be under-estimated.

Succesful completions of the traverse may be entered in the Society's public database. In keeping with the ethics of mountaineering, we do not seek proof of claims. The system works on the personal honour of the person making the claim.

Some will opt to take a few days, possibly using facilities en route such as the YHA at Ogwen Cottage. Zero impact wild camping is also possible although we must point out that landowner permission is required. Given the quality of the scenery there is a good case for a two or three day expedition over the roof of Wales.

Fit and experienced mountain walkers can achieve the full traverse in a very tough but highly memorable and rewarding day. Such a day is perhaps best done in the company of a friend or at the most a small group. A good case can be made for a solo traverse, although that would require a great deal of mountain experience. The nature of the traverse and the ground covered means that this is not suited for mass participation mountain events or fund raising challenges by inexperienced hillwalkers. Members of the Snowdonia Society taking part in the Society's 2009 Summer Solstice walk came across three young men at Foel Grach at 3am who had run into difficulty with navigation and fitness. It turned out that they were involved in a fundraiser that had gone wrong and needed the help of the Ogwen Rescue Team. 

Most traverses are made northwards from Yr Wyddfa to Foel Fras. Many will opt to make a very early start from Pen Y Pass with an ascent of the Miners' (pictured) or PYG track. But there are few rules! To make an entry in the database we simply ask you visit all 14 peaks in a single journey. Choose your own route, pace, companions, starting and stopping points.